reporting from just outside that mississippi river, i'm jim kozimor in new orleans for nbc bay area news. >> okay, thanks, jim. we'll see you in just a little bit. >>> it seems a bay area sports bar is fiech featured in the "s illustrated" sports bar. it's a powerful message for lgbt sports fans. jean elle. >> it's called hi tops, a gay bar. and millions of "sports illustrated" riders will see that photo. and people who work and play here say it is a win for the community. the game is on. food is up. and drinks are strong. hi tops in san francisco's castro district is a sports bar with a twist. >> a lot of people that come in don't even i know that it's a gay sports bar. ands they the best part, you know. and then we find out we have that common bond. >> reporter: 49 irhans are bonding. the 49ers a spot in a super bowl. fans celebrating a kiss. hi top's owner says the coverage sends a winning message. >> sports fans come from all walks of life, and we're a great big melting pot here. and everyone can get along. >> to get that kind of recognition on that level, you know, it's nice to know